Lord, Have Mercy

I find myself feeling disgusted, angry, frustrated, and numb in response to the news of the slaughter in Orlando. I wish I had words that could make sense of this tragedy.

In my view it is not as simplistic as jumping to conclusions about motive and affiliation in regard to the gunner. Yes, he squeezed the trigger again and again. Had he lived, he would have been held accountable for his actions. What we need to be held accountable for are the policies and systems that served to set this stage. When he squeezed his finger on the trigger, the trigger happened to belong to an assault rifle. As it turns out, he was perfectly free to purchase this gun in recent weeks, along with multiple rounds of ammunition that are specifically designed to kill people.

It disgusts me that such weapons are held in such high regard by so many. But what really is disappointing is how quickly the debate has become politicized thereby absolving many from self-examination and moral accountability.

I reluctantly share these reflections, knowing full well that some may parse them for offense. But let us all, no matter our stance and posture, see in this event in Orlando a cry for mercy. Lament the deaths of brothers and sisters. Lament along with those who have lost loved ones. Pray for the peace of God that surpasses all understanding to keep our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus our Lord.  O Lord, have mercy!

Christopher Frye
June 13, 2016